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Liatris spicata is a striking perennial for sunny borders, producing upright flower spikes that add height and rhythm to planting schemes, prairie-style gardens, and cutting patches in late summer.

With narrow, grass-like foliage and bottlebrush blooms in purplish-pink tones, it forms neat clumps that mix easily with grasses and daisies, bringing strong vertical accents without looking heavy.

Plant corms in full sun in light to moderately fertile soil that drains well yet stays reliably moist in summer. Avoid waterlogged winter ground, which can reduce vigour and flowering.

Water during dry spells while growth is active, and keep weeds down so stems develop strongly. Deadhead to extend the display, then cut stems back to the ground in winter once foliage has faded.

Superb for pollinator-friendly borders and long-lasting cut flowers, liatris brings colour and structure when many earlier perennials are finishing, helping to carry the garden through to autumn.

Gladiolus 'White Prosperity' produces classic pure white blooms for crisp summer planting on elegant flower spikes that add height and movement to summer borders. The blooms open gradually from the base upwards, giving a long display and plenty of stems for cutting.

Growing to around 100–120 cm, this gladiolus forms upright, sword-like foliage and neat clumps that suit mixed planting schemes. It’s ideal for weaving through perennials or planting in small groups for a natural, airy look.

Plant corms in spring once the soil has warmed, choosing a sunny, sheltered position in well-drained soil. Work in compost and avoid waterlogged ground, which can rot corms before they establish.

Water during dry spells and keep the area weed-free while shoots emerge. In exposed sites, a simple support helps keep flower spikes upright. Deadhead spent blooms, but leave the foliage to feed the corm for next year.

Excellent as cut flowers and perfect for summer colour, gladioli also attract pollinators when grown in mixed borders. Lift and store corms after foliage dies back in colder areas, or mulch well where varieties are hardy.

Paeonia 'Coral Charm' is a renowned early peony with large semi-double blooms that open rich coral-pink and gradually soften through peachy apricot shades as the flowers mature.

The changing colour gives the plant great garden interest, while the strong stems and substantial blooms make it a favourite for both borders and cutting.

Plant in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light shade, setting the eyes just below soil level and avoiding deep planting, which can reduce flowering.

Water while the plant establishes, mulch annually around the crown and allow foliage to die back naturally in autumn for the healthiest long-term clump.